News & Insights

Adrian Smith

Robert Rust Foods – MICRO Fall 2023

Published November 9, 2023

As part of our ‘Meet Our Founders’ series today, we introduce Adrian Smith, Owner and Manager of Robert Rust Foods based in Winston-Salem, NC. Robert Rust Foods manufactures high quality, handmade frozen foods.

Q: How will your NC IDEA grant funds advance your company?

A: This grant will make it possible for us to move into a dedicated kitchen space, increase our production output, and level up our packaging. We will now be able to sell to larger regional grocery chains.

Q: What is your favorite local business to support?

A: Visual Index is a fantastic place to buy art made by craftspeople from around the country. I always shop there for birthdays, holidays, and other special occasions.

Q: What other passions do you have besides your business?

A: I am passionate about using my time and talents to improve my community. That has looked like volunteering on boards and getting involved with initiatives in the past. Now, I am running for city council.

While visiting Winston-Salem, Adrian recommends:

• Winston-Salem has so much to offer! You can see a play or watch the symphony, you can walk for miles on greenways and in parks, and you can watch live music at a downtown street festival throughout the summer.

  Some of my favorite places to eat include Mozelle’s, Mission Pizza, and Nawab Indian Cuisine.

Support Robert Rust Foods and Adrian by:

• Follow us on Facebook and Instagram @robertrustfoods. Buy a burrito at one of the grocery stores listed on our website.